Embark on an Elite Career: Become a Smokejumper

Are you looking for a career that pushes you to your absolute limits while contributing to the protection of our nation’s wilderness? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is currently seeking resilient, highly motivated candidates for the role of Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper). This isn't your typical job—it is an opportunity to join one of the most elite firefighting cadres in the world.

Job Responsibilities

As a Smokejumper, your primary duty is to respond rapidly to wildfire incidents, often by parachuting into remote, rugged terrain where standard ground crews cannot easily reach. Your responsibilities will include:

Fire Suppression: Executing tactical firefighting operations in accordance with management objectives.
Equipment Maintenance: Rigging, packing, and repairing specialized parachutes and fire suppression tools.
Leadership: Serving as a crew member or Initial Attack Commander, directing resources and personnel during active fire events.
Planning: Evaluating fire behavior and terrain to determine the safest and most effective suppression strategies.

Requirements

Success in this role requires more than just grit; it requires meeting strict federal standards.

Age: Must be at least 18. You must be under 37 years of age for entry, unless specific veteran or prior federal service exceptions are met.
Fitness: Candidates must pass an Arduous Work Capacity Test and position-specific physical tests involving pull-ups, push-ups, and a timed run or heavy load carry.
Certification: Verification of NWCG qualifications (FFT1/ICT4) via an IQCS Master Record is mandatory.
Legal: Must hold a valid driver's license and be able to pass a background investigation and drug testing.

Comparison Table: Grade Level Requirements

Level	Experience/Education Focus	Key Factor
GW-05	1 Year Specialized Exp OR 4-Year Degree	Foundational Fire Experience
GW-06	1 Year Specialized Exp (Fire/Smokejumper)	Previous Smokejumper Exp
GW-07	1 Year Specialized Exp (Incident Commander)	ICT4 Certification Required

Salary Overview

Compensation for Smokejumpers is structured to reflect the intensity of the work. You can expect a base salary range of $52,957 to $81,343 per year. Alaska-based positions include an additional cost-of-living allowance, ensuring that your compensation remains competitive across various duty stations.

Benefits

Beyond a paycheck, you gain access to comprehensive federal benefits, including:

Retirement: Enhanced annuity retirement provisions for primary firefighters.
Career Ladder: Opportunities to advance from GW-05 to GW-07 based on performance.
Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Use a clear, concise federal resume. Avoid exceeding two pages.
Be Explicit: Clearly define your dates of employment (MM/YY) and average hours worked per week for every position listed.
Documentation: Do not forget to attach your transcripts and IQCS records. Missing documents are the leading cause of disqualification.

Serving as a Smokejumper is a unique privilege. If you are ready to test your mettle, work in some of the most beautiful environments in the country, and serve the public, submit your application package today. Ensure all requirements are documented clearly to begin your journey toward becoming a part of this elite organization.

Why This Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) Job Matters

Ready for the ultimate high-stakes challenge? Become a Smokejumper and join an elite force of wildland firefighters defending our nation's most remote landscapes.

Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) Job Overview

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is seeking highly skilled individuals for permanent seasonal Smokejumper positions. These specialized firefighters are the first line of defense, often parachuting into rugged, inaccessible terrain to suppress wildfires, maintain critical fire equipment, and lead initial attack operations. This is a rigorous, high-impact role requiring exceptional physical fitness, tactical decision-making skills, and a commitment to public service. Positions are available in Boise, Idaho, and Fairbanks, Alaska.

Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Maximum entry age requirement: Applicants must not have reached their 37th birthday by the closing date, unless qualifying as a preference-eligible veteran or via prior Federal covered service.
Must hold and maintain a valid state driver's license.
Successful completion of a rigorous pre-employment medical examination.
Must pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test (backpacking a 45-pound load for 3 miles in 45 minutes or less).
Must pass smokejumper-specific physical performance tests, including push-ups, pull-ups, and a timed run or load carry.
Must undergo a background investigation and provide a negative pre-employment drug test result.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12-31-1959.
Must possess specific NWCG certifications (FFT1 for GW-05; ICT4 for GW-07) and provide proof via IQCS Master Record.

Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper)

Prior verified experience in smokejumper operations.
Documented experience as a wildland firefighter on hand, helitack, or engine crews.
Demonstrated expertise in fire behavior analysis and tactical suppression strategies.
Leadership experience in instructing or supervising fire crews in both fire and non-fire settings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal career-seasonal appointment benefits.
✓Competitive salary with locality pay adjustments.
✓Cost of living allowance (COLA) for Alaska-based positions.
✓Opportunities for career ladder promotion from GW-05 up to GW-07.
✓Special retirement provisions for primary/rigorous firefighters.
✓Recruitment or relocation incentives based on individual case evaluation.

💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a federal-style resume (max two pages, 10-point font minimum) detailing dates of employment, hours worked per week, and specific duties.
Gather supporting documents: Official/unofficial transcripts, DD-214 (if applicable), proof of age, and IQCS Master Record for NWCG qualifications.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire via the provided link.
Review eligibility criteria carefully and submit the application package before the deadline.
Monitor application status through your USAJOBS profile.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page limit and font requirements to avoid immediate disqualification.
Be explicit about your fire-related experience; include specific dates (MM/YY) and hours worked, as no assumptions will be made by HR.
Double-check that your NWCG IQCS Master Record is attached; this is a mandatory screen-out element.
If claiming veteran preference or prior federal service, include all relevant SF-50s or DD-214 forms to avoid issues with the Maximum Entry Age (MEA).
Apply well before the deadline to account for any potential technical delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a year-round position?

No, this is a permanent seasonal appointment. You will be in pay status for at least 6 months, with the remainder of the year in non-pay status.

Can I qualify for this job with just my degree?

For the GW-05 level, a 4-year degree in a related field may qualify you. However, there is no education substitution for the GW-06 or GW-07 grade levels; those positions require specific specialized wildland fire experience.

What happens if I am over the age of 37?

The maximum entry age (MEA) is 37. If you are over 37, you may only be considered if you are a preference-eligible veteran or have previous qualifying Federal fire service. Documentation for these exceptions is required.

How long is the work season?

This is a permanent seasonal role, meaning you will be in pay status for at least 6 months, with the remainder of the year in non-pay status.

Can I apply for both Boise and Fairbanks?

Yes, the announcement covers multiple locations. Ensure you are prepared to accept a position at either site if selected.

Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service, operating under the Department of the Interior, is dedicated to managing fire-resilient landscapes across 500 million acres of federal and tribal lands. Through strategic coordination with the Forest Service, state agencies, and tribal partners, the USWFS ensures that wildland fire management is handled with precision, safety, and scientific expertise. Joining this team means joining a legacy of dedication to public land conservation.